Canada updating sperm donor screening criteria for men who have sex with men
Global News
Health Canada is changing its screening criteria for sperm donors, removing previous questions directed at some gay and bisexual men.
Health Canada is changing its screening criteria for sperm donors, removing previous questions directed at some gay and bisexual men.
In a statement to Global News Thursday, the agency confirmed a CTV News report that the rules for men who have sex with men will be updated.
“After a review of the latest scientific evidence and feedback received from recent consultations, Health Canada is updating the donor screening criteria for sperm and ova donors to adopt a more inclusive screening approach,” said Mark Johnson, a Health Canada spokesperson.
“The new inclusive approach will replace the current men who have sex with men screening questions with gender-neutral, sexual behavior-based donor screening questions.”
The decision comes after Health Canada consulted with experts, stakeholders, including LGBTQ2 groups, and patient associations, Johnson said.
“This change will not compromise the safety of donated sperm and ova in Canada,” he added.
It is not clear when the new rules with take effect.
According to Health Canada regulations, a sperm or ova donor must be screened using a structured questionnaire, including age, medical history and genetic history.
